Shopping apparatus and methods

ABSTRACT

Methods and apparatus related to enabling a shopper to utilize a mobile electronic device to check-in to a physical store while at the store. A shopper may utilize the mobile electronic device to check-in at a location proximal to an entrance of a physical store. A pecuniary reward may be provided to the shopper upon checking-in and the shopper may be notified of such reward via the mobile electronic device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED DOCUMENTS

This application claims priority to and is a continuation under 35U.S.C. §120 of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/112,630 filed May 20,2011 and entitled “Shopping Apparatus and Methods” which claims priorityto U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/471,508 filed Apr. 4, 2011and entitled “Shopping Apparatus and Methods.” All of the aforementionedpatent applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention is directed generally to aspects of apparatus andmethods related to shopping. More particularly, various inventivemethods and apparatus disclosed herein relate to enabling a shopper toutilize a mobile electronic device to check-in to a physical store whileat the store.

BACKGROUND

Many stores utilize one or more strategies to entice consumers topatronize their store and/or to gather purchasing data from consumers.For example, many retail stores have a rewards card that may be scannedduring the check-out procedure to thereby entitle the shopper to adiscount on the current purchase and/or to an allotment of points thatmay be used for future purchases and/or rewards. Such rewards cards mayentice the shopper to shop at a store to obtain discounts and/or pointsand may also enable a store to gather data concerning that shopper.

Also, for example, many retail stores may utilize advertisements and/orcoupons, optionally in combination with the rewards card, to enticeconsumers to patronize their store. For example, circular ads may toutspecials that may be obtained through utilization of the rewards card.Also, for example, coupons may be scanned during the check-out procedureto thereby entitle the shopper to a discount on one or more items theypurchase.

Although such strategies may provide enticement for customers topatronize a store and/or may enable for the gathering of purchasing datafrom consumers, they may have one or more drawbacks and/or may beimproved in one or more ways. For example, rewards cards, circular ads,and coupons do not provide a pecuniary benefit to a shopper until duringthe checkout process. Also, for example, shoppers may not havesufficient motivation to view a circular ad and/or coupon. Also, forexample, circular ads and/or coupons may not be tailored to a particularshopper and/or a particular store.

Thus, applicant has recognized and appreciated a need to provide methodsand/or apparatus that enable a shopper to utilize a mobile electronicdevice to check-in to a physical store, while optionally overcoming oneor more drawbacks of and/or improving upon previous methods andapparatus.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is generally directed to various aspects ofapparatus and methods related to shopping. For example, some aspects aredirected toward methods and apparatus related to enabling a shopper toutilize a mobile electronic device to check-in to a physical store whileat the store. For example, in some embodiments a shopper may utilize amobile electronic device to scan a check-in code at a location proximalto an entrance of a physical store. For example, the check-in code maybe attached to a shopping cart and scanned by the mobile electronicdevice shortly after entering the store. A substantially instantaneouspecuniary reward may be provided to the shopper upon reading of thecheck-in code and the shopper may be substantially instantly notified ofsuch reward via the mobile electronic device.

Generally, in one aspect, a method of providing retail information on ashopping cart with combinational electronic retail specific informationfor a consumer is provided. The method includes the steps of: attachingan informational display to a shopping cart of the physical store;removably securing at least one retail informational sheet in theinformational display, the at least one retail informational sheetincluding a check-in code having store identification data; scanning thecheck-in code utilizing a mobile electronic device when at the physicalstore; electronically identifying the physical store based on the storeidentification data contained within the check-in code; identifying ashopper based on shopper identification data transmitted by the mobileelectronic device; providing a link to a pecuniary check-in rewardsaccount of the shopper on the mobile electronic device; providing asubstantially instantaneous pecuniary check-in reward to the pecuniarycheck-in rewards account of the shopper upon utilizing the mobileelectronic device to read the check-in code; and substantiallyinstantaneously notifying the shopper of the pecuniary check-in rewardvia the mobile electronic device.

In some embodiments the informational display is removably attached to ahandle of the shopping cart.

In some embodiments the method further includes directing the mobileelectronic device to at least one physical store screen after scanningthe check-in code utilizing the mobile electronic device. In someversions of those embodiments the physical store screen contains atleast some store information pertinent to at least the physical store.In some versions of those embodiments the physical store screen containsat least some store specific information pertinent only to the physicalstore.

In some embodiments the method further includes providing asubstantially instantaneous further pecuniary reward to the shopperafter scanning the check-in code utilizing the mobile electronic deviceand after at least one further recordable action within the physicalstore. In some versions of those embodiments the at least one furtherrecordable action within the physical store includes viewing additionalinformation related to an in-store product on the mobile electronicdevice.

Generally, in another aspect a method of electronically checking-in to aretail store includes the steps of: securing at least one removabledisplay to a shopping cart of a retail store, the at least one removabledisplay including a check-in code having store identification data;scanning the check-in code utilizing a mobile electronic device to readthe check-in code when at a location proximal to an entrance of theretail store; identifying the retail store based on store identificationdata contained within the check-in code; identifying a shopper based onshopper identification data transmitted by the mobile electronic device;providing a substantially instantaneous pecuniary check-in reward to theshopper upon utilizing the mobile electronic device to read the check-incode; notifying the shopper of the pecuniary check-in reward via themobile electronic device; and providing a substantially instantaneousfurther pecuniary reward to the shopper after utilizing the mobileelectronic device to read the check-in code and after at least onefurther recordable action within the retail store.

In some embodiments the method further includes directing the mobileelectronic device to at least one physical store screen after scanningthe check-in code utilizing the mobile electronic device. In someversions of those embodiments the physical store screen contains atleast some store information pertinent to at least the physical store.In some versions of those embodiments the physical store screen containsat least some store specific information pertinent only to the physicalstore.

In some embodiments the method further includes providing asubstantially instantaneous shopper's account check-in reward to ashopper rewards account of the shopper upon utilizing the mobileelectronic device to scan the check-in code.

In some embodiments the method further includes enabling the shopper toshare the pecuniary check-in reward with third parties via the mobileelectronic device. In some versions of those embodiments the methodfurther includes enabling the shopper to share a selected percentage ofthe pecuniary reward with each of a plurality of third parties via themobile electronic device.

In some embodiments the method further includes utilizing geolocation toverify the store identification data.

In some embodiments the method further includes utilizing geolocation tofurther refine the store identification data.

Generally, in another aspect a method of providing replaceable retailspecific information on a shopping cart including electronicinformation, includes the steps of: affixing an informational display ona visible location of a shopping cart; incorporating a housing on theinformational shopping cart display; removably retaining a magazineinsert in the housing on the informational shopping cart display, themagazine including retail specific printed information for a particularretail location; incorporating on the retail specific printedinformation at least one scanning code in a visible location on theinformational display; scanning the at least one scanning code on themagazine insert which is removably retained on the housing of theinformational shopping cart display utilizing a mobile electronic deviceparticularized to a specific shopper; electronically identifying theparticularized shopper and the particular retail location based upon thescanned at least one scanning code on the magazine insert; linking to ashopper check-in rewards account for the particularized shopper by themobile electronic device; providing to the mobile electronic deviceretail specific electronic information for the particular retaillocation; crediting the check-in rewards account for the particularizedshopper based upon the particular retail location; notifying theparticularized shopper of the credited check-in rewards accountsubstantially instantaneously.

In some embodiments the method further includes providing asubstantially instantaneous shopper's account check-in reward to ashopper rewards account of the shopper upon utilizing the mobileelectronic device to scan the scanning code.

In some embodiments the method further includes providing asubstantially instantaneous further pecuniary reward to the shopperafter utilizing the mobile electronic device to scan the scanning codeand after at least one further recordable action within the retail storeand prior to engaging in a check-out process within the store.

Generally, in another aspect, a computer implemented method includes thesteps of: receiving check-in data from a mobile electronic device of ashopper in response to the shopper scanning a check-in code at aphysical store utilizing the mobile electronic device, the check-in dataincluding store identification data and shopper identification data;identifying the physical store based on the store identification data ofthe check-in data; identifying the shopper based on the shopperidentification data of the check-in data; identifying a pecuniarycheck-in rewards account of the shopper; providing a substantiallyinstantaneous pecuniary check-in reward to the pecuniary check-inrewards account of the shopper in response to scanning of the check-incode by the mobile electronic device; and substantially instantaneouslynotifying the shopper of the pecuniary check-in reward via the mobileelectronic device.

In some embodiments the method further includes directing the mobileelectronic device to display at least one physical store screen afterreceiving the check-in data, the physical store screen containing atleast some store specific information pertinent only to the physicalstore. In some versions of those embodiments the store specificinformation includes at least one special specific only to the physicalstore.

In some embodiments the method further includes directing the mobileelectronic device to at least one physical store screen after receivingthe check-in data, the physical store screen containing at least somestore information pertinent to at least the physical store. In someversions of those embodiments the store information includes couponsspecific to at least the physical store.

In some embodiments the method further includes providing asubstantially instantaneous further pecuniary reward to the shopper inresponse to scanning of the check-in code utilizing the mobileelectronic device and after at least one further recordable actionwithin the physical store. In some versions of those embodiments the atleast one further recordable action within the physical store includesviewing of additional information related to an in-store productutilizing the mobile electronic device.

Generally, in another aspect, a computer implemented method includes thesteps of: receiving check-in data from a mobile electronic device of ashopper in response to the shopper checking-in at a physical storeutilizing the mobile electronic device, the check-in data includingstore identification data and shopper identification data; identifyingthe physical store based on the store identification data of thecheck-in data; identifying the shopper based on the shopperidentification data of the check-in data; providing a pecuniary check-inreward to the shopper in response to scanning of the check-in code bythe mobile electronic device; and providing a further pecuniary rewardto the shopper after receiving the check-in data and after at least onefurther recordable action by the shopper within the retail store.

In some embodiments the method further includes directing the mobileelectronic device to display at least one physical store screen afterreceiving the check-in data, the physical store screen containing atleast some store specific information pertinent only to the physicalstore.

In some embodiments the method further includes directing the mobileelectronic device to display at least one physical store screen afterreceiving the check-in data, the physical store screen containing atleast some store information pertinent to at least the physical store.

In some embodiments the method further includes crediting the pecuniarycheck-in reward to a pecuniary rewards account of the shopper.

In some embodiments the further pecuniary reward includes a cashkickback for viewing of additional information by the shopper, theadditional information related to an item barcode scanned by the mobileelectronic device.

In some embodiments the shopper checking-in at the physical storeutilizing the mobile electronic device includes the shopper scanning acheck-in code on a shopping cart of the physical store.

In some embodiments the method further includes enabling the shopper toshare the pecuniary check-in reward with third parties via the mobileelectronic device. In some versions of those embodiments the methodfurther includes enabling the shopper to share a selected percentage ofthe pecuniary check-in reward with each of a plurality of third partiesvia the mobile electronic device.

Generally, in another aspect, a computer implemented method includes thesteps of: receiving check-in data in response to a shopper checking-inutilizing a check-in code on a visible location of a shopping apparatusat a particular retail location utilizing a mobile electronic deviceparticularized to the shopper; identifying the shopper and theparticular retail location based on the check-in data; providing to themobile electronic device retail specific electronic information for theparticular retail location; identifying a check-in rewards account ofthe shopper based on the check-in data; crediting the shopper check-inrewards account for the shopper based upon the particular retaillocation in response to scanning the scanning code; and notifying theshopper of the credited check-in rewards account substantiallyinstantaneously.

In some embodiments the method further includes providing asubstantially instantaneous further pecuniary reward to the shopper. Insome versions of those embodiments the further pecuniary reward isprovided after checking-in and after at least one further recordableaction within the retail store.

In some embodiments the check-in code is scanned utilizing the mobileelectronic device particularized to the shopper.

Generally, in other aspects, other apparatus, systems, and/or methodsrelated to shopping are provided. Such apparatus, systems, and/ormethods may utilize a mobile electronic device to enhance a shoppingexperience for a shopper and/or for a store.

The term “network” as used herein refers to any interconnection of twoor more devices (including controllers or processors) that facilitatesthe transport of information (e.g. for device control, data storage,data exchange, etc.) between any two or more devices and/or amongmultiple devices coupled to the network. As should be readilyappreciated, various implementations of networks suitable forinterconnecting multiple devices may include any of a variety of networktopologies and employ any of a variety of communication protocols.Additionally, in various networks according to the present disclosure,any one connection between two devices may represent a dedicatedconnection between the two systems, or alternatively a non-dedicatedconnection. In addition to carrying information intended for the twodevices, such a non-dedicated connection may carry information notnecessarily intended for either of the two devices (e.g., an opennetwork connection). Furthermore, it should be readily appreciated thatvarious networks of devices as discussed herein may employ one or morewireless, wire/cable, and/or fiber optic links to facilitate informationtransport throughout the network.

The present disclosure is described with narrative and reference toflowcharts and/or diagrams that illustrate methods, apparatus orsystems, and computer program product. Each portion of the narrative,block of the various flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in theflowcharts, can be implemented by computer program instructions. Suchcomputer program instructions can be loaded onto a general-purposecomputer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable dataprocessing device to produce a machine, such that the instructions thatexecute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatuscreate means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchartsor elsewhere in this specification. The computer program instructionscan also be stored in a computer-readable memory that directs a computeror other programmable data processing device to function in a particularmanner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readablememory produce an article of manufacture including instruction meanswhich implement the function specified in the flowcharts or diagrams.The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer orother programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series ofoperational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmableapparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that theinstructions which execute on the computer or other programmableapparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in theflowcharts or diagrams.

It will be understood that blocks of the flowcharts and other aspects ofthis specification support combinations of systems for performing thespecified functions, combinations of steps for performing the specifiedfunctions, and program instructions for performing the specifiedfunctions. Each block of the flowcharts or diagrams, combinations ofblocks in the flowcharts or diagrams, and other aspects of thespecification can be implemented by special-purpose, hardware-basedcomputer systems which perform the specified functions or steps, orcombinations of special-purpose hardware and computer instructions.

Aspects of the present disclosure can be implemented using any computerprogramming language, now known or developed in the future. Likewise,various computers and/or processors may be used to carry out aspects ofthe present disclosure without being limited to those described herein.

It should be appreciated that all combinations of the foregoing conceptsand additional concepts discussed in greater detail below (provided suchconcepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being partof the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, allcombinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of thisdisclosure are contemplated as being part of the inventive subjectmatter disclosed herein. It should also be appreciated that terminologyexplicitly employed herein that also may appear in any disclosureincorporated by reference should be accorded a meaning most consistentwith the particular concepts disclosed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer to the sameparts throughout the different views. Also, the drawings are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed uponillustrating the principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 illustrates a shopping cart having a display with a check-inbarcode; a mobile electronic device of a shopper is positioned adjacentthe check-in barcode.

FIG. 2 illustrates the mobile electronic device displaying a home screenof an embodiment of an application for checking-in to a physical store.

FIG. 3 illustrates the mobile electronic device displaying a check-inscreen of the embodiment of the application for checking-in to aphysical store.

FIG. 4 illustrates a reward notification screen of the embodiment of theapplication for checking-in to a physical store.

FIG. 5 illustrates a physical store home screen of the embodiment of theapplication for checking-in to a physical store.

FIG. 6 illustrates a pecuniary check-in reward utilization screen of theembodiment of the application for checking-in to a physical store.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of providing asubstantially instantaneous pecuniary reward to a mobile electronicdevice.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of providing asubstantially instantaneous further pecuniary reward to a mobileelectronic device.

FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of providing at leastone tailored retail screen to a shopper.

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a system for checking-in to aphysical store.

FIG. 11 illustrates a first targeted advertisement screen of theembodiment of the application for checking-in to a physical store.

FIG. 12 illustrates a second targeted advertisement screen of theembodiment of the application for checking-in to a physical store.

FIG. 13 illustrates a third targeted advertisement screen of theembodiment of the application for checking-in to a physical store.

FIG. 14 illustrates a transitional screen of the embodiment of theapplication for checking-in to a physical store.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation andnot limitation, representative embodiments disclosing specific detailsare set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of theclaimed invention. However, it will be apparent to one having ordinaryskill in the art having had the benefit of the present disclosure thatother embodiments according to the present teachings that depart fromthe specific details disclosed herein remain within the scope of theappended claims. Moreover, descriptions of well-known apparatuses andmethods may be omitted so as to not obscure the description of therepresentative embodiments. Such methods and apparatuses are clearlywithin the scope of the claimed invention. For example, check-inbarcodes may be depicted herein as Quick Response (QR) barcodes.However, one or more check-in barcodes having other configurations maybe implemented in certain embodiments of the methods and apparatusdescribed herein and implementation of the other configurations inalternatively configured methods and apparatus is contemplated withoutdeviating from the scope or spirit of the claimed invention. Forexample, one or more Semacode barcodes, High Capacity Color Barcodes,ShotCode barcodes, Aztec barcodes, matrix barcodes, and/or otherbarcodes having an optical machine-readable representation of data maybe utilized.

Referring to FIG. 1, a shopping cart 20 is illustrated. The shoppingcart 20 includes a basket 22 and a handle 24 extending rearwardly fromthe basket 22 for driving and steering the shopping cart 20. Aninformational display 30 is attached to the handle 24 via engagement ofhandles 31 and 32 of the informational display 30 with the handle 24 ofthe shopping cart 20. The informational display 30 may be fixedly orremovably attached to the handle 24. In alternative embodiments theinformational display 30 may optionally be integrally formed with thehandle 24. The informational display 30 includes a housing 34 thatremovably retains a magazine insert 36 having a QR type check-in barcode38 on an outward facing side of an outermost page thereof. Instructions39 are provided adjacent the check-in barcode 38 that provide graphicand/or written instructions to a shopper. The instructions generallyinform the shopper to scan the check-in barcode 38 utilizing a mobileelectronic device.

The magazine insert 36 includes a plurality of individual pages that arebound to one another. Some of the individual pages may optionally beprovided with information on both sides thereof. The magazine insert 36may include additional shopping related information and/or advertisementinformation. For example, the magazine insert 36 may include storespecials, a store map, a store item index, one or more recipes, one ormore shopping checklists, one or more project tutorials, one or moreadvertisements for items in the store, one or more advertisements fornearby businesses, and/or other shopping related information and/oradvertisement information. In alternative embodiments the magazineinsert 36 may only include a single sheet, optionally with informationon only one side thereof. The magazine insert 36 may be periodicallyreplaced to, inter alia, change information thereon, for aestheticpurposes, and/or to change the check-in barcode 38. The magazine insert36 may be removably retained on the housing 34 utilizing, for example,one or more of an adhesive, clips, a retaining lip sized to fit aroundall or portions of the periphery of the magazine insert 36, screws, zipties, and/or other retention apparatus and/or methods.

Although a check-in barcode 38 is depicted herein as being on aparticular magazine insert 36 removably received in a housing 34attached to a handle 24, one of ordinary skill in the art, having hadthe benefit of the present disclosure, will recognize and appreciatethat in alternative embodiments the check-in barcode 38 may be otherwisecoupled to or integrally formed with the shopping cart 20. For example,the check-in barcode 38 may be on a sheet insert removably attachable toa housing on the basket 22, may be encased behind a clear outer casingof the handle 24, may be molded into a plastic basket 22 and/or handle24, and/or may be attached via a clip removably attached to the shoppingcart 20.

Moreover, as described in detail herein, one of ordinary skill in theart, having had the benefit of the present disclosure, will recognizeand appreciate that in some alternative embodiments the check-in barcode38 may be provided coupled to alternative items that may be proximal tothe entrance of a store. For example, in some embodiments the check-inbarcode 38 may be provided on posters positioned proximal to theentrance of a store, may be provided on an entrance door of a store, maybe provided on standalone displays provided proximal to the entrance ofa store, may be provided on small shopping baskets provided proximal tothe entrance of a store, and/or may be provided on a circular ad and/orcircular ad stand provided proximal to the entrance of a store.Providing the check-in barcode 38 proximal to the entrance of a storemay provide a shopper with the opportunity to utilize the check-inbarcode 38 within the first minutes of entering the store.

A hand 1 of a shopper is also depicted in FIG. 1 holding a cell phone 50adjacent to the check-in barcode 38. The shopper has just utilized thecell phone 50 to scan the check-in barcode 38 and an image 538 of thecheck-in barcode 38 is still visible on the screen of the cell phone 50.In some embodiments the cell phone 50 may scan the check-in barcode 38by utilizing a camera of the cell phone to temporarily capture one ormore images of the check-in barcode 38 and analyzing the check-inbarcode 38 within the image(s). In other embodiments the mobile phone 50may capture one or more images of the check-in barcode 38 and send theimage(s) to a server for analysis. As described in detail herein, oncethe shopper has scanned the check-in barcode 38, the shopper will bechecked-in to the store and a substantially instantaneous pecuniaryreward may be provided to the shopper. Moreover, additional informationregarding the store, items in the store, projects related to items inthe store, etc. may optionally be provided to the shopper after scanningthe check-in barcode 38. Such additional information may optionally betailored to the shopper.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-6, the mobile electronic device 50 isillustrated displaying various screens of an embodiment of anapplication for checking-in to a physical store. FIG. 2 illustrates ahome screen of the embodiment of an application for checking-in to aphysical store. The home screen includes an application logo 542(“CHECK-IN”) and application slogan 544 (“Don't check out until youCheck-in”). The home screen also includes a check-in rewards bar 546that displays the shopper's current balance of check-in rewards. Thebalance of check-in rewards is in cash in various embodiments depictedherein. However, as described in detail herein, other pecuniary check-inrewards may be utilized such as, for example, points that may beredeemed for pecuniary savings, coupons that may be redeemed forpecuniary savings, and/or gift certificates that may be redeemed forpecuniary savings. The pecuniary check-in rewards may be provided insuch alternative formats initially or after conversion from a cash orother format by a shopper.

Located below the application logo 542 and the application slogan 544 isa ticker area 548 that may display textual information as desired. Forexample, the ticker area 548 may display scrolling text that highlightsnew features of the application, may display scrolling text thathighlights merchants that interface with the application, and/or maydisplay scrolling text highlighting features of the application. Theticker area 548 may optionally be clickable by a user to displayadditional information. For example, clicking the ticker area 548 maydirect the mobile phone 50 to a web page containing additionalinformation pertinent to the textual information displayed in the tickerarea 548. In some embodiments the ticker area 548 may display anadvertisement or other paid-for material.

Located below the ticker area 548 is a check-in button 550 that, whenactuated by a shopper, will enable the shopper to check-in to a store asdescribed in detail herein. For example, the check-in button 550 maydirect the mobile phone 50 to a check-in screen such as the embodimentof the check-in screen of FIG. 3. Referring to FIG. 3, an image 538 ofthe check-in barcode 38 is visible in a viewfinder area of the screen ofthe cell phone 50. The image 538 may be visible when a shopper isholding the mobile phone 50 such that a camera thereof has the check-inbarcode 38 in its field of view at a sufficiently close distance tocapture and/or read contents thereof. The image 538 may optionallyremain visible for an amount of time to provide the shopper withverification that the check-in barcode 38 was scanned by the mobilephone 50. Instructions 539A and 539B are provided above and below,respectively, the viewfinder area of the mobile phone 50 and instructthe shopper how to scan the check-in barcode 38. Optionally, video,images, and/or audio may be provided in the viewfinder area and/orelsewhere on the screen or from the mobile phone 50 to additionally oralternatively instruct the shopper how to scan the check-in barcode 38.

Referring to FIG. 4, once the shopper has utilized the mobile phone 50to scan the check-in barcode 38, a reward notification screen 541 may bedisplayed to the shopper. The reward notification screen 541 notifiesthe shopper of the application of a shopper's account check-in reward tothe shopper rewards account of the shopper. The depicted notificationscreen 541 notifies the shopper that 1,000 points have been applied to ashopper rewards account of the shopper. The shopper rewards account maybe a rewards account associated with the store that the shopperchecked-in to or, alternatively, may be another store that the shopperhas selected. For example, a store may provide shopper's accountcheck-in reward points to a shopper when that shopper checks-in to thatstore. The store may optionally additionally provide shopper's accountcheck-in rewards points to a shopper when that shopper checks-in to anaffiliated store.

The reward notification screen 541 also notifies the shopper of theapplication of a pecuniary check-in reward to the shopper's check-inrewards account and the amount of the reward ($0.50). The rewardnotification screen 541 may be in the form of a pop-up type screendisplayed for a period of time or until recognized by a user and/or anew screen that is displayed for a period of time or until recognized bya user. Optionally, the reward notification screen 541 may be twoseparate screens (simultaneously or separately displayed) that mayseparately display the pecuniary check-in reward and the shopper'saccount check-in reward. Also, as discussed herein, in certainembodiments of the application and/or when checking-in to certainstores, only the pecuniary check-in rewards may be earned. For example,only pecuniary check-in rewards may be earned when the store does nothave a shopper rewards program or when the shopper is not registeredwith the store's shopper rewards program.

Alternatively, a reward notification may, for example, be displayed inthe ticker area 548 or may be otherwise displayed to a usersubstantially instantaneously following scanning of the check-in barcode38. For example, the pecuniary rewards notification screen 546 may beupdated upon the scanning of the check-in barcode 38, to thereby notifythe shopper that a pecuniary check-in reward has been applied to apecuniary check-in reward account of the user. For example, thepecuniary check-in rewards notification screen 546 indicates a balanceof $73.01. The shopper may look at the balance and compare it to theprevious known balance of $72.51 to ascertain the amount of thepecuniary check-in reward applied by scanning of the check-in barcode38. Alternatively, the check-in rewards bar 546 may separately display(temporarily or permanently) the amount of the most recently appliedpecuniary check-in reward and/or a user may actuate the check-in rewardsbar 546 to view a listing of the amount of one or more recent appliedpecuniary check-in reward(s). Audio and/or video generated on the mobilephone 50 may additionally and/or alternatively notify the shopper of theapplication and/or amount of the pecuniary check-in reward and/or of theshopper's account check-in reward.

Optionally, the application may interface with one or more socialnetworking applications such as, for example FACEBOOK, TWITTER, and/orother social networking application. For example, upon checking-in to astore utilizing a mobile electronic device to scan a check-in barcode38, a user may be presented with the option to post a status update orother update to their social networking account notifying other usersthat they have checked-in to a particular store. Optionally, the updatemay provide information concerning the amount of the pecuniary check-inreward that was received for checking-in and/or how the pecuniarycheck-in reward was applied (e.g., a percentage applied to help acharity). Optionally, the application may be configured to interfacewith and automatically post updates to one or more social networkingapplications without manual prompting by a shopper.

The application may also interface with one or more social networkingapplications to enable a shopper to share product reviews, share detailsregarding sales, and/or share information concerning further pecuniaryrewards. A shopper may share such information or other information withall social networking friends or optionally share information only withfriends from a selected group. For example, a shopper may share onlywith: friends only from a selected social networking application;friends who are also user's of the application; friends who belong to ashoppers group; etc.

As described in detail herein, in some embodiments the shopper maychoose to apply pecuniary check-in rewards in one or more of a varietyof different ways. For example, in some embodiments the shopper maychoose to apply pecuniary check-in rewards partially to charity andpartially to a shopper rewards card. Also, for example, in someembodiments the shopper may choose to receive all pecuniary check-inrewards as cash and receive a portion of the cash and donate anotherportion of the cash to a friend.

Referring again to FIG. 2, a tutorial/help button 552 is adjacent thecheck-in button 550 and, when actuated by a shopper, will displaycontent that assists a shopper in utilizing the application. Forexample, content such as text, images, audio, and/or video may beprovided that instructs a shopper how to utilize the check-in feature,how to link shopper information to the application, how to link ashopper's rewards card(s) to the application, and/or how to utilizeother features of the application. The deals may optionally be tailoredto correspond with stores the shopper has previously checked-in toand/or that are related to such stores.

A matrix of icons 554-576 are provided below the check-in button 550 andthe tutorial/help button 552. A daily deals icon 554, when actuated, mayprovide information concerning promotions, coupons, or other dealrelated information pertaining to one or more stores and/or one or moreproducts. For example, clicking on the daily deals icon 554 may directthe mobile phone 50 to a web page containing a listing of the mostpopular deals for the day from a variety of retail stores. For example,the web page may be a forum that contains discussion regarding populardeals as posted and voted on by a variety of users. Also, for example,the web page may be a generated listing of editor selected top dailydeals from retail stores that interface with the application.

A coupons to card icon 556, when actuated, may provide the ability toperuse manufacturer coupons, select one or more coupons of interest, andload those coupons to a shopper rewards card for future use. Forexample, clicking on the coupons to card icon 556 may direct the mobilephone 50 to a listing of active coupons by category, manufacturer,and/or store and enable the shopper to load those coupons to a shopperrewards card, to multiple shopper rewards cards, and/or to theapplication for future use. A national ads icon 558, when actuated, mayprovide a listing of national ads of various stores and provide ashopper the ability to peruse a selected of the national ads as desired.A user may be able to select items within a given ad to thereby add suchitems to a shopping list feature of the application. Items may also beadded to the shopping list feature by scanning a barcode of the item(e.g., before discarding an empty item). A recipes icon 560, whenactuated, may provide access to one or more recipes. For example,clicking on the recipes icon 560 may provide access to a web site thatenables perusal of recipes by ingredient, by brand, by popularity, etc.If a user likes a given recipe they may be able to add the recipeingredients to the shopping list feature of the application. Also, theapplication may determine if any of the ingredients of the recipe havean active coupon and, if so, add the coupon to the pertinent (e.g., asselected by a user and/or of the store the shopper is in) shopperrewards card of the shopper.

A gift cards icon 562, when actuated, may provide the ability topurchase a gift card for one or more stores. For example, clicking onthe gift cards icon 562 may direct the mobile phone 50 to a listing ofstores and enable a user to purchase a desired denomination of gift cardto that store. Optionally, the gift card may be loaded to theapplication for use and/or may be loaded to a shopper rewards cardassociated with a selected store. In some embodiments the gift card maybe loaded to the application of another shopper (e.g., to a friend as agift) and/or another shopper's shopper rewards card. Also, in someembodiments, the gift card may be purchased, in whole or in part,utilizing earned pecuniary check-in rewards and/or further pecuniaryrewards described herein.

A check-in rewards icon 564, when actuated, may provide additionalinformation related to earned check-in rewards. For example, whenactuated, the check-in rewards icon 564 may direct the mobile phone 50to one or more screens that include information related to a shopper'scheck-in rewards history, current check-in rewards offered by variousstores, a listing of stores participating in check-in rewards, ashopper's current check-in rewards utilization settings, tying ashopper's account check-in rewards into one or more shopper's rewardscards, tying pecuniary check-in rewards into a bank account, providingdemographic information for utilization in applying and/or utilizing thecheck-in rewards, utilizing check-in rewards, etc.

Referring to FIG. 6, a pecuniary check-in reward utilization screen ofthe embodiment of the application for checking-in to a physical store isillustrated. The pecuniary check-in reward utilization screen may be onescreen accessible via actuation of the check-in rewards icon 564.Several different buttons (generally indicated at 5821-5826) aredisplayed in FIG. 6. It is understood that all buttons 5821-5826 may notbe displayed at once and that certain buttons 5822-5826 may not bedisplayed until certain other precursor buttons 5821-5825 are actuated.

Actuation of the check-in dollars conversion button 5821 displays a listof conversion options 5822. The options include “Winn-Dixie,” “KmartShop Your Way,” “My Gas,” “A Friend,” and “My Charity.” Selection ofWinn-Dixie or Kmart Shop Your Way will enable the shopper to manually orautomatically convert all or a portion of the pecuniary check-in dollarsto points, coupons, or other pecuniary interest in respective shoppersrewards cards of Winn-Dixie and Kmart. For example, the shopper maychoose to automatically convert 100% of the check-in dollars to pointson a shopper's rewards card and, upon checking-in to a store, pecuniarycheck-in rewards may be converted to such points. The conversion of thepecuniary check-in rewards may be in addition to the separate shopper'saccount check-in rewards rewarded by the store's shopper rewards programupon checking-in. Also, for example, the shopper may choose toperiodically manually convert pecuniary check-in dollars to shopperrewards points and, upon checking-in to a store, receive check-indollars that may later be converted to shoppers rewards points. Theshopper may be prompted to supply information concerning the respectiveshoppers rewards cards so that the application may appropriately applythe check-in dollars, so that the shopper may appropriately check-in toa store, and/or so that shopper's account check-in rewards may beapplied. For example, the shopper may be prompted to enter demographicdata, data on their shopper rewards card, and/or scan their shopperrewards card utilizing the mobile phone 50.

Selection of My Gas will enable the shopper to manually or automaticallyconvert all or a portion of the check-in dollars to points, coupons, orother pecuniary interest that may be utilized at one or more gasstations. Optionally, the pecuniary interest may be loaded onto ashopper's rewards card associated with the gas station. Alternatively oradditionally, the pecuniary interest may be mailed or electronicallysent (e.g., via the mobile phone 50) to a shopper in the form ofcoupons, points, gift cards, etc. The shopper may be prompted to supplyinformation concerning the respective shoppers rewards cards, desiredgas station, etc. so that the application may appropriately apply thecheck-in dollars.

Selection of A Friend will enable the shopper to manually orautomatically convert all or a portion of the check-in dollars to adesired non-charitable third party. Optionally, the pecuniary interestmay be loaded onto a third party's shopper rewards card associated witha store. Alternatively or additionally, the pecuniary interest may beapplied to a third party's check-in dollars for utilization by the thirdparty as desired. Alternatively, the pecuniary interest may be mailed orelectronically sent (e.g., via e-mail, via EFT, via a social networkingapplication) to a third party in the form of coupons, points, giftcards, cash, check, etc. The shopper may be prompted to supplyinformation concerning the third parties so that the application mayappropriately apply the check-in dollars.

Selection of My Charity, displays a listing of charities 5823. Thecharities may be automatically populated, populated based on selectionsby a user (e.g., searching a database of charities), and/or populatedbased on demographic or other data of a user. Optionally, for anunrecognized charity, the shopper may be prompted for additionalinformation concerning the charity (e.g., the charity's name, address,tax ID number). Also, a shopper may be prompted to enter information tobe eligible for a tax deduction (e.g., shopper's name, address, tax IDnumber) so that a receipt may be sent to the shopper.

Selection of a particular charity from the listing of charities 5823 mayprovide the shopper with the option to manually convert check-in dollars5824 or automatically convert check-in dollars 5825. Manually convertingcheck-in dollars 5824 enables a shopper to select a desired amount ofearned check-in dollars (e.g., a specific dollar amount or a specificpercentage) to apply to a selected charity on a one-time basis.Automatically converting check-in dollars 5825 enables a shopper toselect a percentage (e.g., percentages 5826 or a manually enteredpercentage) of earned check-in dollars to automatically apply to aselected charity. The shopper may choose to apply all previously earnedcheck-in dollars and check-in dollars going forward, or just check-indollars going forward.

Although particular check-in dollar conversion options are depicted inFIG. 6, one of ordinary skill in the art, having had the benefit of thepresent disclosure, will recognize and appreciate that in alternativeembodiments additional and/or alternative check-in dollar conversionoptions may be provided. For example, in some embodiments a cash-outcheck-in dollar conversion option may be provided. A shopper may chooseto have check-in dollars applied directly to an entered bank account(their own or a third parties') or to have a check mailed to them. Thecheck-in dollars may convert to actual cash on a one to one basis insome embodiments or, in alternative embodiments, optionally convert onan alternative basis. Also, for example, in some embodiments a shoppermay choose to convert check-in dollars earned in selected stores tocertain rewards cards, third parties, etc. and convert check-in dollarsearned in selected other stores to other rewards cards, third parties,etc. For example, check-in dollars earned in a given store mayoptionally be worth more if converted to that store's rewards card thanif converted to another store's rewards card.

Referring again to FIG. 2, a scan/compare icon 566 is provided that,when actuated, may provide the ability to scan a barcode of an itemwithin a store and locate additional information concerning the item.For example, clicking on the scan/compare icon 566 may enable the mobilephone 50 to scan an item and, upon scanning of the item, provide alisting of other stores that have the item and the price of the item atother stores. Also, for example, upon scanning of an item, competingproducts in the store may be displayed (e.g., generic brands) andoptionally, information concerning those competing products (e.g.,price, features).

A brand detergent icon 568 is also provided that, when actuated, mayprovide a user with instructions concerning treating stains utilizing acertain brand of detergent. A food icon 570 is also provided that, whenactuated, may provide a user with information (e.g., specials,nutritional information) concerning foods from a certain manufacturer. Amobile cookbook icon 572 is also provided that, when actuated, mayprovide a user with recipes that utilize one or more products from aparticular manufacturer. A kitchen icon 574 is also provided that, whenactuated, may provide a user with recipes and/or other informationconcerning products from a particular manufacturer. Optionally, thedetergent icon 568, the food icon 570, the mobile cookbook icon 572,and/or the kitchen icon 574 may be sponsored by one or moremanufacturers. Optionally, revenue from the sponsorship(s) may beutilized in one or more of the pecuniary rewards described herein.

A baby registry icon 567 is also provided that, when actuated, mayenable a shopper to view products from another shopper's baby registryand/or edit their own registry. The baby registry icon 567 mayoptionally be tied into a registry at a particular store, may combineregistries from a plurality of stores, and/or may serve as a standaloneregistry. The baby registry icon 567 may enable a user to scan an item'sbarcode utilizing the mobile phone 50 to add/remove that item from theirregistry and/or to notify another registry that they are purchasing anitem on that registry.

An advertisement/coupon banner 578 is provided below the icons 554-576.The banner 578 may display one or more sponsored advertisements.Optionally, a shopper may click the banner 578 to obtain additionalinformation regarding the advertisement. For example, the shopper mayclick the banner 578 to be redirected to a website to purchase theproduct being advertised.

Provided below the banner 578 are additional buttons 580-588. The Homebutton 580, when actuated, may direct the shopper to the home screendepicted in FIG. 2 (for example, when the shopper has navigated toanother screen). The My Rewards button 582, when actuated, may directthe shopper to a screen that provides details concerning earned rewards.Optionally, the screen may contain information concerning earnedpecuniary check-in rewards described in detail herein in addition tofurther pecuniary or other rewards that may be earned by a shopper, asdescribed in detail herein. The My Stores button 584, when actuated, maydirect the shopper to a screen that provides details concerning storesthat the shopper has visited and/or has listed as favorite stores. Forexample, the screen may provide details on specials at selected stores,current check-in rewards offered at selected stores, etc. The My Listbutton 586, when actuated, may direct the shopper to a screen thatprovide details concerning user generated lists such as, for example,shopping lists described herein, to do lists, etc. The More button 588,when actuated, provides access to additional icons and/or buttons havingadditional functionality.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a physical store home screen of the embodimentof the application for checking-in to a physical store is depicted. Thestore home screen is optionally displayed after the user has checked-into a given physical store. The store home screen contains many of thesame icons and buttons as the home screen, but also includes storespecific information 590 and store specific icons 592-598. The storespecific information 590 provides the name of the store that the shopperhas checked-in to, in addition to the store number and address. Thestore specific icons 592-598 include a manager specials icon 592, aweekly flyer icon 594, a store directory icon 596, and a selected storeicon 598. The manager specials icon 592, when actuated, may listspecials that may be in addition to regular specials such as, forexample, specials dictated by a manager due to over ordering. Also, forexample, the manager specials icon 592 may include specials that areprovide to selected shoppers only such as, for example, shoppers that:are frequent shoppers to the store; new shoppers to the store; typicallyshop at a competing store; have certain attributes; etc., as determinedby, for example, the application, store rewards program(s) interfacingwith the application, marketing service(s) interfacing with theapplication, and/or supplied demographic information. For example, theapplication may determine that the shopper typically shops at grocerystore A and, if the shopper checks-in to grocery store B, may offer theshopper additional specials to grocery store B.

The weekly flyer icon 594, when actuated, provides a link to the weekly(or other period) flyer that contains the store's current specials.Optionally, the flyer may be tailored to the particular shopper. Forexample, the first pages of the flyer may display items that mayinterest the shopper more than items on the latter pages of the flyer. Ashopper's interest may be determined by, for example, the application,store rewards program(s), marketing services, and/or supplieddemographic information. The store directory icon 596, when actuated,provides a link to a map of the store and/or to an optionally searchableindex of the store to assist a shopper in locating particular items.Optionally, the store directory icon 596 may be tailored to theparticular shopper. For example, the location of certain items that mayinterest the shopper may be highlighted in the store directory. Theselected store icon 598, when actuated, may link to informationpertaining to the checked-in store. For example, store hours, storefeatures, current store check-in rewards, and/or current furtherpecuniary rewards may be provided upon actuation of the selected storeicon 598.

One or more of the icons and buttons 554-598 described herein may directa user to a web page or other content that contains paid-for material.For example, placement of coupons when the coupons to card icon 556 isselected, may be dictated at least in part by whether a manufacturer haspaid for premium placement. Also, for example, the listing of availablegift cards may be dependent, at least in part, by whether a manufacturerhas paid for placement in the listing. Also, for example, icons 568-576,ticker 548, and banner 578 may optionally contain paid-for material. Thecheck-in dollars that are applied to a shopper's check-in rewards mayoptionally be derived from such paid-for material and/or from one ormore of a variety of other sources. For example, the check-in dollarsmay additionally or alternatively be derived from a participation feederived from stores for enabling the stores to interface with thecheck-in rewards application. Optionally, the check-in dollars that areapplied to a shopper's check-in rewards may be a fixed percentage(optionally with a cap) of revenue derived from certain sources.

One or more of the icons 554-598 described herein may direct a user to aweb page or other content that is at least partially tailored to ashopper. For example, information displayed upon actuation of the dailydeals icon 554 may be based at least in part on the purchasing historyof the shopper and/or demographics of the shopper. Also, one or more ofthe icons 554-598 may be based at least in part tailored to a particularshopper and tailored to the store that the shopper has checked-in to.For example, one or more of the icons may be tailored to a shopper basedon his demographics and/or shopping history (as determined by theapplication, from one or more interfacing shoppers rewards programs,and/or information from one or more shopper marketing companies) and mayalso be tailored to the store that the shopper has checked-in to. Forexample, the coupons to card icon 556 may be tailored to include onlyitems that are within the store that the shopper has checked-in to andto include only items that compete with items the shopper has previouslypurchased.

Although particular icons are depicted and described herein, one ofordinary skill in the art, having had the benefit of the presentdisclosure, will recognize and appreciate that in alternativeembodiments one or more of the icons may be replaced with other icons,buttons, and/or links. For example, other icons such as a health iconthat displays health information concerning foods, a pharmacy icon thatdisplays information pertaining to a store's pharmacy, a weddingregistry icon, a social networking icon that provides access to a socialnetworking application and/or one or more social networking features,and/or a product recall icon that displays information pertaining toproduct recalls (optionally, based upon a shopper's purchase history)may additionally or alternatively be provided. The particular icons thatare displayed may optionally be partially or wholly dictated by a user.Moreover, actuation of the depicted or alternative icons by a shoppermay result in additional and/or alternative functionality than describedherein.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a flowchart of an embodiment of providing asubstantially instantaneous pecuniary reward to a mobile electronicdevice is illustrated. At step 111 store identification data from amobile electronic device such as, for example, mobile phone 50, a tabletcomputer, or PDA is received. The store identification data is encodedin the check-in barcode of the store that was scanned by the mobileelectronic device. In some embodiments software on the mobile electronicdevice decodes the check-in barcode and supplies store identificationdata contained therein. In other embodiments the mobile electronicdevice may provide an image of the check-in barcode and storeidentification data contained therein is decoded therefrom.

At step 112, the store is identified based at least in part on thereceived store identification data. In some embodiments the store isidentified based wholly on store identification data. In otherembodiments the store may be identified based on store identificationdata and geolocation data. Geolocation data includes electronic datasupplied by the mobile electronic device that indicates (directly orindirectly) the location thereof such as GPS data, cell phone towerdata, and/or IP address data. The geolocation data may be utilized toverify that the shopper is actually at a store (e.g, to verify that theshopper is not scanning a copied check-in barcode). In some embodimentsthe check-in barcode at a store may be periodically changed at the store(and updated in the database) to minimize copying of check-in barcodes.The geolocation data may additionally or alternatively be utilized tohelp narrow which store a user is at out of a plurality of storesindicated in the store identification data. For example, the storeidentification data may indicate a Winn-Dixie, but not specify thelocation. The geolocation data may be utilized to ascertain the exactlocation.

At step 113, shopper identification data is received from the mobileelectronic device. The shopper identification data may include, forexample, one or more shopper rewards numbers, demographic data suppliedby the user, and/or an internal shopper identification number utilizedto identify a user of the application. For example, each user of theapplication described herein may be referenced with an internal shopperidentification number to identify the user. The shopper identificationnumber may be sent by the mobile electronic device. Also, for example,each user of the application described herein may be referenced with anidentifying number of the mobile device (e.g., phone number, SIM number,or other identifier) that may be sent by the mobile electronic device.

At step 114, a substantially instantaneous pecuniary check-in reward isprovided to the shopper. For example, a pecuniary check-in reward iscredited to the check-in rewards account. The pecuniary check-in rewardmay be standard or may based on one or more factors. For example, thereward may be based on which store the shopper checked-in to, how manytimes the user has checked-in to the store, what other stores theshopper has checked-in to, the purchasing history of the shopper, howmany times the shopper has checked-in to other stores, and/ordemographics information of the shopper. As discussed herein, a separateshopper's account check-in reward may also optionally be applied andcredited to the shopper's shopper rewards account. The shopper's accountcheck-in reward may be standard or may be based on one or more factorssuch as, for example, which store the shopper checked-in to, how manytimes the user has checked-in to the store, what other stores theshopper has checked-in to, the purchasing history of the shopper, howmany times the shopper has checked-in to other stores, and/ordemographics information of the shopper.

At step 115, pecuniary check-in reward data is sent to the mobileelectronic device. The pecuniary check-in reward data may include datathat enables the mobile electronic device to notify the shopper that apecuniary check-in reward has been applied to the shopper's account.Optionally, detailed information regarding the amount of the pecuniarycheck-in reward may also be provided. Also, optionally, the shopper maybe provided with additional pecuniary check-in reward data such as thetotal of all pecuniary check-in rewards that the shopper has receivedand not yet utilized. Separate shopper's account check-in reward datamay also optionally be sent to the mobile device that may enable themobile electronic device to notify the shopper that shopper's accountcheck-in reward points have been credited to the shopper's shopperrewards account.

At step 116, the mobile electronic device is directed to at least oneretail store screen that contains data specifically tailored to thespecific retail store. Optionally, the retail store screen (or screensaccessible therefrom) may additionally contain data specificallytailored to the shopper as described herein. In some embodiments aserver may direct the mobile electronic device to a screen and mayoptionally load data to the mobile electronic device. In otherembodiments the mobile electronic device may automatically direct itselfto a retail store screen. For example, in some embodiments the check-inbarcode may contain a link to a store specific web page and the mobileelectronic device may navigate to that page following scanning of thecheck-in barcode. In some of those embodiments the mobile electronicdevice may further navigate to a shopper specific page based on, forexample, shopper identification data (e.g., shopper rewards number;application account number; mobile phone ID data).

Referring now to FIG. 8, a flowchart of an embodiment of providing asubstantially instantaneous further pecuniary reward to a mobileelectronic device is illustrated. The further pecuniary reward isseparate and distinct from the pecuniary check-in reward and is rewardedfor an action that occurs after checking-in. The further pecuniaryreward may be in the form of cash, vouchers, gift cards, etc. Thefurther pecuniary reward may be kept in an account separate from thepecuniary check-in rewards or may optionally be combined with thepecuniary check-in rewards account.

At step 121, further recordable event data is received from a mobileelectronic device or from another device. For example, data thatindicates a user has viewed recipes via the mobile cookbook icon 572 maybe transmitted by the mobile device and/or by a server hosting themobile cookbook. Also, for example, data that indicates a user hasviewed an advertisement within banner 578 may be transmitted by themobile device and/or a server hosting the advertisement or linkassociated with the advertisement. Also, for example, data thatindicates a user has selected the coupons to card icon 556, applied acoupon, and purchased a product utilizing the coupon may be communicatedfrom the mobile electronic device or from servers associated with aretail store. Also, for example, data that indicates a user has viewedrecipes via the mobile cookbook icon 572 and purchased a productutilized in the recipe may be communicated from the mobile electronicdevice or from servers associated with a retail store.

At step 122 a further substantially instantaneous pecuniary reward isprovided to the shopper. For example, substantially instantaneously uponreceipt of data from the mobile electronic device and/or from anotherdevice that indicates the shopper has performed a further recordableaction, a further pecuniary reward is credited to the shopper's account.The further pecuniary reward may be standard or may based on one or morefactors. For example, the further pecuniary reward may be based on whatthe further action was, whether a product was actually purchased, whatproduct (if any) is involved, the purchasing history of the shopper,and/or demographics information of the shopper.

At step 123, further pecuniary reward data is substantiallyinstantaneously sent to the mobile electronic device. The furtherpecuniary reward data may include data that enables the mobileelectronic device to notify the shopper that a further pecuniary rewardhas been applied to the shopper's account. Optionally, detailedinformation regarding the amount of the further pecuniary reward mayalso be provided. Also, optionally, the shopper may be provided withadditional further pecuniary rewards data such as the total of allfurther pecuniary rewards that the shopper has received and not yetutilized. Also, optionally the shopper may be notified via the mobileelectronic device that upon performing a further action additionalfurther pecuniary rewards may be obtained. For example, upon viewing arecipe via the mobile cookbook icon 572 the shopper may be provided witha further pecuniary reward and notified that if one or more of the itemsin the recipe is purchased, an additional further pecuniary reward maybe obtained.

The earned further pecuniary rewards may optionally be applied in amanner similar to that described with respect to pecuniary check-inrewards. For example, the further pecuniary rewards may optionally beconverted from one format to another format (e.g., received in dollarsand converted to rewards points). Also, for example, the furtherpecuniary rewards may optionally be automatically or manually applied toa third party, a charity, a bank account, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a flowchart of an embodiment of providing atleast one tailored retail screen to a shopper is illustrated. At step130, store identification data is received from a mobile electronicdevice. The store identification data may be encoded in the check-inbarcode of the store that was scanned by the mobile electronic device.In some embodiments software on the mobile electronic device decodes thecheck-in barcode and supplies store identification data containedtherein. In other embodiments the mobile electronic device may providean image of the check-in barcode and store identification data containedtherein is decoded therefrom.

At step 131 the store is identified based at least in part on thereceived store identification data. In some embodiments the store isidentified based wholly on the store identification data. In otherembodiments the store may be identified based on the storeidentification data and geolocation data.

At step 132 shopper identification data is received from the mobileelectronic device. The shopper identification data may include, forexample, one or more shopper rewards numbers, demographic data suppliedby the user, mobile electronic device identification data, and/or aninternal shopper identification number utilized to identify a user ofthe application.

At step 133, the mobile electronic device is directed to at least oneretail store screen tailored to the shopper. For example, in someembodiments a shopper may select a store flyer icon within theapplication that directs the shopper to a store flyer that isspecifically arranged based upon shopping habits, demographic data, orother information pertaining to the particular shopper. Also, forexample, in some embodiments a shopper may be presented with specificspecials based upon shopping habits, demographic data, or otherinformation pertaining to the particular shopper.

Referring now to FIG. 10, an embodiment of a system for checking-in to aphysical store is illustrated. A shopping cart 220 is illustrated havinga basket 222 and a handle 224 extending rearward from the basket 222. Acheck-in barcode 238 is provided on an insert that is attached to a sideof the basket 222. The insert includes instructions 239 related toutilization of the check-in barcode 238. Optionally, the insert isremovably attached to the basket 222.

A mobile phone 50 and a tablet computer 250 are depicted in FIG. 10interacting with the system for checking-in to a physical store. Themobile phone 50 and tablet computer 250 may be utilized to, inter alia,scan the check-in barcode 238. The mobile phone 50 is in networkcommunication with a server 212 of the system via a cell phone tower 203and data lines (including any associated intermediary switches, servers,etc.) extending between the cell phone tower 203 and server 212. Thetablet computer 250 is in network communication with a wireless router205 that is in communication with a server 212 of the system via anintermediary in-store computer 214 and data lines (including anyassociated intermediary switches, servers, etc.) extending between thein-store computer 214 and server 212. In alternative embodiments thetablet computer 250 may be in communication with the cell phone tower203. The in-store computer 214 may be omitted in some embodiments andthe router 205 may simply be connected directly to the internet or othernetwork. Also, both the router 205 and the in-store computer 214 may beomitted in some embodiments.

The server 212 may perform one or more of the server side functionsdescribed herein. The mobile phone 50 and tablet computer 250 mayperform one or more of the mobile electronic device side functionsdescribed herein. It is understood that the server 212 may optionallyperform one or more mobile phone 50 and tablet computer 250 functions asdesired (for example, when the mobile phone 50 and/or tablet computer250 has limited functionality or when it is desirable to remotelyperform some functions) and/or the mobile phone 50 and tablet computer250 may optionally perform one or more of the functions of the server212 (for example, when it is desirable to remotely perform somefunctions of the server 212). Optionally, the in-store computer 214 maybe programmed to perform one or more of the functions that mightotherwise be performed by the server 212. For example, the in-storecomputer 214 may be accessed by a user to program and/or deliver one ormore aspects of store specific content to a user (via router 205 and/orserver 212). For example, the in-store computer 214 may be utilized todeliver one or more manager specials to shoppers that utilize theapplication described herein via wi-fi in the store.

Also depicted in FIG. 10 is a store shopper rewards account server 207and a marketing server 209 that are each in communication with theserver 212. The store shopper rewards account server 207 may containinformation pertaining to a store's shopper rewards account. Inembodiments where separate shopper's account check-in rewards areprovided, the store shopper rewards account server 207 may receivecheck-in information from server 212 to thereby enable the applicationof a shopper's account check-in reward to a shopper's shopper rewardsaccount. The store shopper rewards account server 207 may also provideinformation to server 212 such as, for example, the amount of theshopper's account check-in reward provided to the shopper and/or theshopper's current shopper rewards balance. It is understood that theserver 212 may be in communication with multiple shopper rewards accountservers 207 that correspond to shopper rewards accounts of differentstores.

The marketing server 209 may contain information pertaining to ashopper's purchasing history. For example, the marketing server 209 mayinclude information from a marketing company such as, for example,CATALINA MARKETING of St. Petersburg, Fla. The marketing server 209 mayprovide information to server 212 that enables server 212 to delivertailored information to a shopper. For example, information from themarketing server 209 may help tailor the store page and/or specials thata shopper sees after checking-in. The server 212 may provide identifyinginformation (e.g., demographics, shopper rewards data, other identifier)of the shopper to the marketing server 209 to thereby enable themarketing server 209 to provide pertinent data for the shopper. It isunderstood that the server 212 may be in communication with multiplemarketing servers 209.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-13, targeted advertisement screens of theapplication for checking-in to a physical store are illustrated. Thescreens may optionally be displayed to a shopper after the rewardnotification screen of FIG. 4 and prior to the store home screen of FIG.5. FIG. 11 illustrates a screen showing a first targeted advertisement591, FIG. 12 illustrates a screen showing a second targetedadvertisement 592, and FIG. 3 illustrates a screen showing a thirdtargeted advertisement 593. Smaller versions of each of the threetargeted advertisements 591A, 592A, and 593A are also provided on eachof the screens. Each of the screens of FIGS. 11-13 may be displayed fora given amount of time before transitioning to the next screen. Ashopper may actuate the smaller versions of the targeted advertisements591A, 592A, and 593A to manually transition between the screens.

The targeted advertisements in FIGS. 11-13 may be pertinent to thephysical store that the shopper has checked-in to and/or to the shopper.For example, the targeted advertisements 591-593 may be based upon pastshopping experiences of the shopper as ascertained from the application,a shopper rewards program of the store, a shopper rewards program ofanother store, and/or from one or more marketing companies. A shoppermay optionally receive further pecuniary rewards for viewing thetargeted advertisements 591-593.

FIG. 14 illustrates a transitional screen of the embodiment of theapplication for checking-in to a physical store that may be displayedafter the third targeted advertisement 593 is displayed for a period oftime. The transitional screen enables the user to actuate the startshopping button 594 or the back button 595. The start shopping button594 may direct the shopper to a store home screen such as the store homescreen of FIG. 5. The back button 595 may direct the shopper back to thetargeted advertisement screens of FIGS. 11-13.

While several inventive embodiments have been described and illustratedherein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision avariety of other means and/or structures for performing the functionand/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantagesdescribed herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications isdeemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments describedherein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciatethat all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations describedherein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters,dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon thespecific application or applications for which the inventive teachingsis/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able toascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalentsto the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is,therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presentedby way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claimsand equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practicedotherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventiveembodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individualfeature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein.In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems,articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems,articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent,is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood tocontrol over dictionary definitions, definitions in documentsincorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the definedterms.

The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in thespecification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to thecontrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.”

The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in theclaims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements soconjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some casesand disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with“and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” ofthe elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be presentother than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause,whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when usedin conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer,in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other thanB); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elementsother than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionallyincluding other elements); etc.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should beunderstood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. Forexample, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall beinterpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, butalso including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and,optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated tothe contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when usedin the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactlyone element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or”as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusivealternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded byterms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or“exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims,shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “atleast one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should beunderstood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more ofthe elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including atleast one of each and every element specifically listed within the listof elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the listof elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally bepresent other than the elements specifically identified within the listof elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether relatedor unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as anon-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “atleast one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) canrefer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including morethan one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements otherthan B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally includingmore than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elementsother than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionallyincluding more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including morethan one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

It should also be understood that, unless clearly indicated to thecontrary, in any methods claimed herein that include more than one stepor act, the order of the steps or acts of the method is not necessarilylimited to the order in which the steps or acts of the method arerecited.

In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitionalphrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,”“containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are tobe understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limitedto. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consistingessentially of” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases,respectively, as set forth in the United States Patent Office Manual ofPatent Examining Procedures, Section 2111.03.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer implemented method, comprising:receiving check-in data from a mobile electronic device of a shopper inresponse to the shopper scanning a check-in code at a physical storeutilizing the mobile electronic device, the check-in data includingstore identification data and shopper identification data; identifyingthe physical store based on the store identification data of thecheck-in data; identifying the shopper based on the shopperidentification data of the check-in data; identifying a pecuniarycheck-in rewards account of the shopper; providing a substantiallyinstantaneous pecuniary check-in reward to the pecuniary check-inrewards account of the shopper in response to scanning of the check-incode by the mobile electronic device; and substantially instantaneouslynotifying the shopper of the pecuniary check-in reward via the mobileelectronic device.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprisingdirecting the mobile electronic device to display at least one physicalstore screen after receiving the check-in data, the physical storescreen containing at least some store specific information pertinentonly to the physical store.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the storespecific information includes at least one special specific only to thephysical store.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising directingthe mobile electronic device to at least one physical store screen afterreceiving the check-in data, the physical store screen containing atleast some store information pertinent to at least the physical store.5. The method of claim 4, wherein the store information includes couponsspecific to at least the physical store.
 6. The method of claim 1,further comprising providing a substantially instantaneous furtherpecuniary reward to the shopper in response to scanning of the check-incode utilizing the mobile electronic device and after at least onefurther recordable action within the physical store.
 7. The method ofclaim 6, wherein the at least one further recordable action within thephysical store includes viewing of additional information related to anin-store product utilizing the mobile electronic device.
 8. A computerimplemented method, comprising: receiving check-in data from a mobileelectronic device of a shopper in response to the shopper checking-in ata physical store utilizing the mobile electronic device, the check-indata including store identification data and shopper identificationdata; identifying the physical store based on the store identificationdata of the check-in data; identifying the shopper based on the shopperidentification data of the check-in data; providing a pecuniary check-inreward to the shopper in response to scanning of the check-in code bythe mobile electronic device; and providing a further pecuniary rewardto the shopper after receiving the check-in data and after at least onefurther recordable action by the shopper within the retail store.
 9. Themethod of claim 8, further comprising directing the mobile electronicdevice to display at least one physical store screen after receiving thecheck-in data, the physical store screen containing at least some storespecific information pertinent only to the physical store.
 10. Themethod of claim 8, further comprising directing the mobile electronicdevice to display at least one physical store screen after receiving thecheck-in data, the physical store screen containing at least some storeinformation pertinent to at least the physical store.
 11. The method ofclaim 8, further comprising crediting the pecuniary check-in reward to apecuniary rewards account of the shopper.
 12. The method of claim 8,wherein the further pecuniary reward includes a cash kickback forviewing of additional information by the shopper, the additionalinformation related to an item barcode scanned by the mobile electronicdevice.
 13. The method of claim 8, wherein the shopper checking-in atthe physical store utilizing the mobile electronic device includes theshopper scanning a check-in code on a shopping cart of the physicalstore.
 14. The method of claim 8, further comprising enabling theshopper to share the pecuniary check-in reward with third parties viathe mobile electronic device.
 15. The method of claim 14, furthercomprising enabling the shopper to share a selected percentage of thepecuniary check-in reward with each of a plurality of third parties viathe mobile electronic device.
 16. A computer implemented method,comprising: receiving check-in data in response to a shopper checking-inutilizing a check-in code on a visible location of a shopping apparatusat a particular retail location utilizing a mobile electronic deviceparticularized to the shopper; identifying the shopper and theparticular retail location based on the check-in data; providing to themobile electronic device retail specific electronic information for theparticular retail location; identifying a check-in rewards account ofthe shopper based on the check-in data; crediting the shopper check-inrewards account for the shopper based upon the particular retaillocation in response to scanning the scanning code; and notifying theshopper of the credited check-in rewards account substantiallyinstantaneously.
 17. The method of claim 16, further comprisingproviding a substantially instantaneous further pecuniary reward to theshopper.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the further pecuniaryreward is provided after checking-in and after at least one furtherrecordable action within the retail store.
 19. The method of claim 16,wherein the check-in code is scanned utilizing the mobile electronicdevice particularized to the shopper.